BECOME A STUDENT
Who?
We serve adults 18 years of age and older who are reading below an 8th grade equivalency
What?
We provide classes and tutors to assist adults with improving their reading skills
Where?
Lessons are held at our main office:
5211 W Broad St.,
Suite 102, Richmond, VA 23230
When?
Twice a week, year-round
Fee?
Free to students
Student experience
“Since I’ve been here, I’ve been more confident going out and filling out paperwork, especially at the doctor’s office. I would advise others who can’t read to put their pride to the side and step up and do something for yourself. ”
FAQs:
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Q: I think I have dyslexia, do you test for that?
A: No. We do not diagnose any learning differences or disabilities. We use the Wilson reading curriculum which was developed specifically for individuals with dyslexia.
Q: I graduated high school, but I don’t think I read well. Can you help?
A: Yes. Call to schedule a reading assessment. Once you take the assessment, we will know your reading level. If your reading level is 8th grade or higher, we can refer you to other organizations based on your personal goals.
Q: I’m a senior citizen, am I too old for classes?
A: Absolutely not! We have many senior students, and you are never too old to learn.
Q: I have children and want to be able to help them read. Can the READ Center help me?
A: Yes. Our classes teach similar skills. You can use these reading skills to help children read better too.
Q: I would like my own tutor. Is that possible?
A: Maybe. Classes are for adults reading below a 4th grade equivalency. One-to-one tutors are available for adults reading between a 4th and 8th grade equivalency.
Q: I’m not sure if I’m a fit for this program. What is it like?
A: Our students, teachers, tutors and staff become like family. We are a compassionate, patient, non-judgmental group. Students and tutors in the classroom are supportive of each other. We respect students’ privacy and understand the educational challenges people may have faced in the past that have brought them to us now. Give us a call to talk more.
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Q: I have a friend or family member who cannot read at all. Can you help them?
A: Maybe. Some of our students start with learning letter sounds. Give us a call to talk more about this.
Q: My child needs literacy help. Can you help?
A: Not until they are 18 years old. If they are younger, their school is your best resource.
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Q: How do I help my client become a student?
A: Give us a call and we can help determine if your client would benefit from READ RVA classes.
Q: I’m a community partner, how can I learn more?
A: We’d love to chat! Click HERE to schedule time.
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Q: What is a class like?
A: Our classes are small, and are led by professional teaching staff. We also have trained volunteer tutors who assist each class.
Q: How long do classes run?
A: Students may enroll at any time. Our academic year runs from early September to the end of July.
Q: Do you offer GED® test prep classes?
A: No. We do not prepare students to take the high school equivalency tests. If you are not sure if you read well enough to take those tests, we can help you improve your reading skill. When you’re ready, we can refer you to a GED® test prep class.
Q: Do you offer ESL classes?
A: No. We do not teach English language classes. If you speak well in English and need help reading English, give us a call. If you need help with speaking English or English pronunciation, we can refer you to other organizations.(click here for a list of local ESL programs)
Q: Do you offer computer classes?
A: No. We include digital literacy as part of our reading classes. Our reading students also have access to a weekly computer lab for practice.
